Tutorial for Robotic Radical and Partial Nephrectomy

Abstract

Abstract Introduction In the medical education environment, expectations to teach creatively and efficiently while maintaining or increasing productivity and complying with ACGME duty hour constraints is a taxing load for even the most dedicated physician. Additionally, duty hour constraints, evolving curricular experiences, high faculty expectations, and work-life balance issues challenge learners to be prepared and knowledgeable as they enter the operating room. This tutorial is offers instructors educational tools that support the learning of medical students, residents, and novice robotic surgeons. The tutorial is designed to provide the learner, in written and video form, with the detailed in vivo and ex vivo information needed to master robotic radical and partial nephrectomy, one of the most common urologic cancer operations. Methods The tutorial and video are distributed to our residents at the start of robotic rotations. The tutorial is required, and learners must demonstrate successful completion of all the multiple-choice questions in the Robotic Radical and Partial Nephrectomy posttest prior to entering the robotic surgical suite. The tutorial is meant to be read over and over during training as the learner progresses through the various steps of the operation. Dedicated video study and case observation will also be a key to mastery of robotic prostatectomy. Results This tutorial has significantly shortened the learning curve for our residents. Residents demonstrate knowledge of access and port placement for both procedures. Residents have knowledge of their own roles and those of other individuals within the robotic operating room suite. Residents demonstrate level-appropriate knowledge of the elements necessary for robotic radical and partial nephrectomy. Discussion As residents progress through the learning process, they carry this tutorial with them. It is common to see them sitting with a video and the tutorial, making notes. When learners are struggling with the operation or a given step, it is useful to have them review this tutorial and then have the instructor sit with them in a dedicated video review session to help clarify the details they are overlooking or having difficulty with.

Keywords

• Cancer
• Urology
• Robotics
• General Surgery
• Urologic Cancer
• Neoplasms